Event: Jane the Virgin E4 Screening

So a few weeks ago I was lucky enough to be invited to the press screening of E4's latest American import, the award-winning, Jane the Virgin. Hearing the premise of the show, I was pretty apprehensive and didn't expect a lot but what I found was a show with a surprising amount of depth, unbelievable dramatics and pleasing witty moments.

Jane (Gina Rodriguez) is a hard-working university student, a loving long-term girlfriend, working a series of rubbish part-time jobs and...a virgin. Despite being in a committed, loving relationship, Jane has sworn her virginity to her wedding night and so it comes as a bit of a surprise when a routine smear test finds her accidentally artificially inseminated and pregnant. Crazy, right? The plot thickens when the father turns out to be an old romantic interest who happens to be a millionaire but whose last chance it is to have a baby with his gold-digging wife - not to mention his depressed lesbian gynaecologist  sister who impregnated her in the first place AND all the lovers, cheating and lies that also make up this rather kooky comedy-drama.

I know what you're thinking...and I thought the exact same until I actually watched it. What seems to be one of E4's most bizarre imports yet, actually turned out to be pretty darn watch-able. Having gone in with no expectations, I was pleasantly surprised when I found myself cringing at all the right moments and finding myself rather entertained. I was pretty impressed with the writing - with every character there appears to be endless dramatic possibilities and a new plot twist. Without giving too much away, it seems that every character has a secret or scandal to be revealed as the series develops.

All images courtesy of and provided by E4

By no means is this show to be taken seriously, however. For me, it's fun to simply enjoy something without over-analysing or reading in to it. Sometimes a cigar is just a cigar and the show has a certain level of self awareness which makes it all the more amusing. If you're looking for some easy-viewing, a lot of drama and a ridiculous plot point then this is for you. Whilst I don't believe Jane the Virgin is going to win any Baftas, I do think it's an enjoyable, fun and original new show with some excellent characters and I think you should all check out. I'm really looking forward to the next episode to see how the plot develops and how it plays out. You can check out Jane the Virgin on Wednesday 22nd April on E4 at 9pm!

Let me know what you think of the pilot and thanks to E4 for inviting me along to view this fun new show.